Michelle Andres Writes ~ Hopelessly deep thinker, frighteningly keen observer, discerning feeler and Jesus-loving, imperfect human storyteller … at your service.

(This is the second of a 3 part series on “Fair Weather Thinking” that will be published in the month of July. “Fair Weather Thinking” is designed to help you identify possibilities in your life by helping you clear the path of mental and physical debris that can cloud good decision making. Think clearly, because your life is a result of the choices you make. You can also read Part I and Part III).

Fair weather affords us the ability to see clearly. We can see the distant horizon, as well as what’s directly in front of us. In “Fair Weather Thinking – Part II”  we explore how keeping our “mental atmosphere” clear of “particulate” allows us to see more options and possibilities when making decisions. As a result of thoughtful choices, we find ourselves living more consciously constructed lives. (click to Tweet) 

Last week we explored the benefits of taking responsibility for our own actions, cultivating productive habits and learning to say “no” in order to stay focused on developing our own gifts.  Setting clear boundaries includes knowing when to say, “no,” but there are a few other components, too. Here are a couple other ideas to help you control the wild weather and reclaim your life as your own…

4. Not everything is your business. Sometimes it seems like it’s our job to fix everyone else’s stuff. Some people do so much of it, they actually begin to identify with fixing. I’ve even seen people who wait for others to need their help – perhaps put them in a position of powerlessness – so they can rescue them.

It’s natural. As human beings we like repeat behaviour that make us feel competent.  This can easily be overused…and who wants to be a one trick pony? Also, as human beings, it’s not our jobs to run the lives of other human beings. Really? You’re doing your own so perfectly? PSSHAW!

Guess what? Not everything is your business. (click to Tweet)  Spiritual guru, Byron Katie talks about three types of business – your business, my business and God’s business. You should only be in one kind of business …YOURS. Train your mind not to overreact to other people’s business – it clouds your skies of possibility when you try to run more than one life. Geez… one is difficult enough!

5. Ditch the judgment – Our experiences are simultaneous and parallel. We make leaps to make sense of it all. More often than not, we’re assuming incorrect information to fill in gaps. Using the information we manufacture to understand the intentions of others is crazy! Read that last line again. How often do you react to what you think is real, only to find out you were missing pieces of the puzzle? Ooops. Discipline yourself to get the facts before you react or make decisions – and don’t waste energy reacting to assumptions. Pause and don’t judge. It helps maintain your equilibrium. With the practice of non-judgment, you will begin to see the world differently. I know, it’s easier said than done. Practice it though…I’m sure you will become Yoda! That’s YODA, not yoga. Okay, either will work.

This week, I’m inviting you to try on these two new ideas. I also invite your thoughts about them…you can leave a comment below.

Until then,

 Your Face, May the Sun Shine On, 

Michelle Andres is a writer, artist and coach who nudges, nay, shoves, her clients in the direction of their dreams,  helping them to overcome non-productive behaviours and enjoy more success in their lives.          

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